The NHL has issued a stern warning that its players may not participate in the 2026 Milan-Cortina Olympics if the main hockey arena is not completed on time. Construction delays at the Santa Giulia Ice Hockey Arena in Milan have raised significant concerns, with no backup plan in place. Deputy Commissioner Bill Daly emphasized that without a finished rink, NHL stars will not attend the event.
Organizers of the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan-Cortina are facing mounting pressure as the Santa Giulia Ice Hockey Arena, set to host the hockey tournaments, remains unfinished just two months before the first matches. The 16,000-seat venue on the outskirts of Milan is behind schedule, prompting the relocation of a junior tournament, the BVM, to the smaller Milano Rho Ice Hockey Arena starting December 8 as a test event.
The men's hockey tournament is scheduled from February 11 to 22, following the women's event from February 5 to 19. This Olympics marks the NHL's anticipated return after skipping the 2018 PyeongChang and 2022 Beijing Games. However, uncertainties persist, including reports that the ice surface may be smaller than the NHL standard of 26 by 60 meters.
In an interview with Daily Faceoff's Matt Larkin, NHL Deputy Commissioner Bill Daly stated, “It depends on what percent you want to place on the possibility the rink doesn’t get completed. If there’s no rink completed, there’s no NHL players going to the Olympics.”
While ESPN sources indicate the league remains committed despite lacking control over construction, experts highlight broader issues. Sportsnet's Frank Seravalli noted delays could affect broadcasting, technology, lighting, and facilities, with time running short in Italy. Toronto Star columnist Bruce Arthur urged players to voice concerns, emphasizing the 12-year wait for Olympic hockey's return since 2014.
Hockey News' Michael Traikos raised fears of overlooked details, suggesting IOC missteps could push the NHL toward prioritizing World Cup events. TSN's Craig Button called for rejecting a subpar venue, arguing the IOC benefits disproportionately, while Brian Hayes acknowledged players' national duty but decried the rink size issues as "insanity." Tickets for the February 22 final are available up to 1,400 euros, about 15,000 Swedish kronor.